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Roman-Ramos H, Prieto-da-Silva ÁRB, Dellê H, Floriano RS, Dias L, Hyslop S, Schezaro-Ramos R, Servent D, Mourier G, de Oliveira JL, Lemes DE, Costa-Lotufo LV, Oliveira JS, Menezes MC, Markus RP, Ho PL. The Cloning and Characterization of a Three-Finger Toxin Homolog (NXH8) from the Coralsnake Micrurus corallinus That Interacts with Skeletal Muscle Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:164. [PMID: 38668589 PMCID: PMC11054780 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16040164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Coralsnakes (Micrurus spp.) are the only elapids found throughout the Americas. They are recognized for their highly neurotoxic venom, which is comprised of a wide variety of toxins, including the stable, low-mass toxins known as three-finger toxins (3FTx). Due to difficulties in venom extraction and availability, research on coralsnake venoms is still very limited when compared to that of other Elapidae snakes like cobras, kraits, and mambas. In this study, two previously described 3FTx from the venom of M. corallinus, NXH1 (3SOC1_MICCO), and NXH8 (3NO48_MICCO) were characterized. Using in silico, in vitro, and ex vivo experiments, the biological activities of these toxins were predicted and evaluated. The results showed that only NXH8 was capable of binding to skeletal muscle cells and modulating the activity of nAChRs in nerve-diaphragm preparations. These effects were antagonized by anti-rNXH8 or antielapidic sera. Sequence analysis revealed that the NXH1 toxin possesses eight cysteine residues and four disulfide bonds, while the NXH8 toxin has a primary structure similar to that of non-conventional 3FTx, with an additional disulfide bond on the first loop. These findings add more information related to the structural diversity present within the 3FTx class, while expanding our understanding of the mechanisms of the toxicity of this coralsnake venom and opening new perspectives for developing more effective therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Roman-Ramos
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (H.D.); (J.L.d.O.); (D.E.L.)
| | | | - Humberto Dellê
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (H.D.); (J.L.d.O.); (D.E.L.)
| | - Rafael S. Floriano
- Laboratório de Toxinologia e Estudos Cardiovasculares, Universidade do Oeste Paulista (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente 19067-175, SP, Brazil;
| | - Lourdes Dias
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.D.); (S.H.); (R.S.-R.)
| | - Stephen Hyslop
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.D.); (S.H.); (R.S.-R.)
| | - Raphael Schezaro-Ramos
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.D.); (S.H.); (R.S.-R.)
| | - Denis Servent
- Service d’Ingénierie Moléculaire pour la Santé (SIMoS), Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé, Université Paris Saclay, Commissariat à l’énergie Atomique et aux Énergies Alternatives (CEA), F-91191 Gif sur Yvette, France; (D.S.); (G.M.)
| | - Gilles Mourier
- Service d’Ingénierie Moléculaire pour la Santé (SIMoS), Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé, Université Paris Saclay, Commissariat à l’énergie Atomique et aux Énergies Alternatives (CEA), F-91191 Gif sur Yvette, France; (D.S.); (G.M.)
| | - Jéssica Lopes de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (H.D.); (J.L.d.O.); (D.E.L.)
| | - Douglas Edgard Lemes
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (H.D.); (J.L.d.O.); (D.E.L.)
| | - Letícia V. Costa-Lotufo
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Jane S. Oliveira
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil;
| | | | - Regina P. Markus
- Laboratório de Cronofarmacologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 05508-090, SP, Brazil;
| | - Paulo Lee Ho
- Centro Bioindustrial, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil;
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Sampat GH, Hiremath K, Dodakallanavar J, Patil VS, Harish DR, Biradar P, Mahadevamurthy RK, Barvaliya M, Roy S. Unraveling snake venom phospholipase A 2: an overview of its structure, pharmacology, and inhibitors. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:1454-1473. [PMID: 37926795 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00543-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Snake bite is a neglected disease that affects millions of people worldwide. WHO reported approximately 5 million people are bitten by various species of snakes each year, resulting in nearly 1 million deaths and an additional three times cases of permanent disability. Snakes utilize the venom mainly for immobilization and digestion of their prey. Snake venom is a composition of proteins and enzymes which is responsible for its diverse pharmacological action. Snake venom phospholipase A2 (SvPLA2) is an enzyme that is present in every snake species in different quantities and is known to produce remarkable functional diversity and pharmacological action like inflammation, necrosis, myonecrosis, hemorrhage, etc. Arachidonic acid, a precursor to eicosanoids, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, is released when SvPLA2 catalyzes the hydrolysis of the sn-2 positions of membrane glycerophospholipids, which is responsible for its actions. Polyvalent antivenom produced from horses or lambs is the standard treatment for snake envenomation, although it has many drawbacks. Traditional medical practitioners treat snake bites using plants and other remedies as a sustainable alternative. More than 500 plant species from more than 100 families reported having venom-neutralizing abilities. Plant-derived secondary metabolites have the ability to reduce the venom's adverse consequences. Numerous studies have documented the ability of plant chemicals to inhibit the enzymes found in snake venom. Research in recent years has shown that various small molecules, such as varespladib and methyl varespladib, effectively inhibit the PLA2 toxin. In the present article, we have overviewed the knowledge of snake venom phospholipase A2, its classification, and the mechanism involved in the pathophysiology of cytotoxicity, myonecrosis, anticoagulation, and inflammation clinical application and inhibitors of SvPLA2, along with the list of studies carried out to evaluate the potency of small molecules like varespladib and secondary metabolites from the traditional medicine for their anti-PLA2 effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh H Sampat
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
| | - Kashinath Hiremath
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
| | - Jagadeesh Dodakallanavar
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
| | - Vishal S Patil
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
| | - Darasaguppe R Harish
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India.
| | - Prakash Biradar
- KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India.
| | | | - Manish Barvaliya
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
| | - Subarna Roy
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, Karnataka, 590010, India
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Cardiac Effects of Micrurus corallinus and Micrurus dumerilii carinicauda (Elapidae) Venoms and Neutralization by Brazilian Coralsnake Antivenom and Varespladib. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2023; 23:132-146. [PMID: 36813862 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-023-09786-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we examined the action of two South American coralsnake (Micrurus corallinus and Micrurus dumerilii carinicauda) venoms on rat heart function in the absence and presence of treatment with Brazilian coralsnake antivenom (CAV) and varespladib (VPL), a potent phospholipase A2 inhibitor. Anesthetized male Wistar rats were injected with saline (control) or a single dose of venom (1.5 mg/kg, i.m.) and monitored for alterations in echocardiographic parameters, serum CK-MB levels and cardiac histomorphology, the latter using a combination of fractal dimension and histopathological methods. Neither of the venoms caused cardiac functional alterations 2 h after venom injection; however, M. corallinus venom caused tachycardia 2 h after venom injection, with CAV (given i.p. at an antivenom:venom ratio of 1:1.5, v/w), VPL (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) and CAV + VPL preventing this increase. Both venoms increased the cardiac lesional score and serum CK-MB levels compared to saline-treated rats, but only the combination of CAV + VPL prevented these alterations, although VPL alone was able to attenuate the increase in CK-MB caused by M. corallinus venom. Micrurus corallinus venom increased the heart fractal dimension measurement, but none of the treatments prevented this alteration. In conclusion, M. corallinus and M. d. carinicauda venoms caused no major cardiac functional alterations at the dose tested, although M. corallinus venom caused transient tachycardia. Both venoms caused some cardiac morphological damage, as indicated by histomorphological analyses and the increase in circulating CK-MB levels. These alterations were consistently attenuated by a combination of CAV and VPL.
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Casais-E-Silva LL, da Cruz-Hofling MA, Teixeira CFP. The edematogenic effect of Micrurus lemniscatus venom is dependent on venom phospholipase A 2 activity and modulated by non-neurogenic factors. Toxicol Lett 2022; 369:12-21. [PMID: 35970279 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Coral snakes mainly cause neurotoxic symptoms in human envenomation, but experimental studies have already demonstrated several pharmacological activities in addition to these effects. This investigation was carried out with the aim of evaluating (1) non-neurogenic mechanisms involved in the inflammatory response induced by Micrurus lemniscatus venom (MLV) in rat hind paws, (2) participation of PLA2 in this response, and (3) neutralizing efficiency of commercial anti-elapid antivenom on edema. MLV promoted a rapid, significant increase in vascular permeability, influx of leukocytes, and disorganization of collagen bundles, as demonstrated by histological analysis. Several pretreatments were applied to establish the involvement of inflammatory mediators in MLV-induced edema (5 µg/paw). Treatment of animals with chlorpromazine reduced MLV-induced edema, indicating participation of TNF-α. However, the inefficiency of other pharmacological treatments suggests that eicosanoids, leukotrienes, and nitric oxide have no role in this type of edema formation. In contrast, PAF negatively modulates this venom-induced effect. MLV was recognized by anti-elapid serum, but this antivenom did not neutralize edema formation. Chemical modification of MLV with p-bromophenacyl bromide abrogated the phospholipase activity and markedly reduced edema, demonstrating PLA2 participation in MLV-induced edema. In conclusion, the non-neurogenic inflammatory profile of MLV is characterized by TNF-α-mediated edema, participation of PLA2 activity, and down-regulation by PAF. MLV induces an influx of leukocytes and destruction of collagen fibers at the site of its injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana L Casais-E-Silva
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunoendocrinology and Toxinology, Department of Bioregulation, Institute of Health Sciences (ICS), Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, BA, Brazil.
| | - Maria Alice da Cruz-Hofling
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Pharmacological Screening of Venoms from Five Brazilian Micrurus Species on Different Ion Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147714. [PMID: 35887062 PMCID: PMC9318628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Coral snake venoms from the Micrurus genus are a natural library of components with multiple targets, yet are poorly explored. In Brazil, 34 Micrurus species are currently described, and just a few have been investigated for their venom activities. Micrurus venoms are composed mainly of phospholipases A2 and three-finger toxins, which are responsible for neuromuscular blockade—the main envenomation outcome in humans. Beyond these two major toxin families, minor components are also important for the global venom activity, including Kunitz-peptides, serine proteases, 5′ nucleotidases, among others. In the present study, we used the two-microelectrode voltage clamp technique to explore the crude venom activities of five different Micrurus species from the south and southeast of Brazil: M. altirostris, M. corallinus, M. frontalis, M. carvalhoi and M. decoratus. All five venoms induced full inhibition of the muscle-type α1β1δε nAChR with different levels of reversibility. We found M. altirostris and M. frontalis venoms acting as partial inhibitors of the neuronal-type α7 nAChR with an interesting subsequent potentiation after one washout. We discovered that M. altirostris and M. corallinus venoms modulate the α1β2 GABAAR. Interestingly, the screening on KV1.3 showed that all five Micrurus venoms act as inhibitors, being totally reversible after the washout. Since this activity seems to be conserved among different species, we hypothesized that the Micrurus venoms may rely on potassium channel inhibitory activity as an important feature of their envenomation strategy. Finally, tests on NaV1.2 and NaV1.4 showed that these channels do not seem to be targeted by Micrurus venoms. In summary, the venoms tested are multifunctional, each of them acting on at least two different types of targets.
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Palasuberniam P, Tan KY, Tan CH. De novo venom gland transcriptomics of Calliophis bivirgata flaviceps: uncovering the complexity of toxins from the Malayan blue coral snake. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210024. [PMID: 34616441 PMCID: PMC8476087 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Malayan blue coral snake, Calliophis bivirgata
flaviceps, is a medically important venomous snake in Southeast
Asia. However, the complexity and diversity of its venom genes remain little
explored. Methods: To address this, we applied high-throughput next-generation sequencing to
profile the venom gland cDNA libraries of C. bivirgata
flaviceps. The transcriptome was de novo
assembled, followed by gene annotation, multiple sequence alignment and
analyses of the transcripts. Results: A total of 74 non-redundant toxin-encoding genes from 16 protein families
were identified, with 31 full-length toxin transcripts. Three-finger toxins
(3FTx), primarily delta-neurotoxins and cardiotoxin-like/cytotoxin-like
proteins, were the most diverse and abundantly expressed. The major 3FTx
(Cb_FTX01 and Cb_FTX02) are highly similar to calliotoxin, a
delta-neurotoxin previously reported in the venom of C.
bivirgata. This study also revealed a conserved tyrosine
residue at position 4 of the cardiotoxin-like/cytotoxin-like protein genes
in the species. These variants, proposed as Y-type CTX-like proteins, are
similar to the H-type CTX from cobras. The substitution is conservative
though, preserving a less toxic form of elapid CTX-like protein, as
indicated by the lack of venom cytotoxicity in previous laboratory and
clinical findings. The ecological role of these toxins, however, remains
unclear. The study also uncovered unique transcripts that belong to
phospholipase A2 of Groups IA and IB, and snake venom
metalloproteinases of PIII subclass, which show sequence variations from
those of Asiatic elapids. Conclusion: The venom gland transcriptome of C. bivirgata flaviceps from
Malaysia was de novo assembled and annotated. The diversity
and expression profile of toxin genes provide insights into the biological
and medical importance of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praneetha Palasuberniam
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Cardiovascular activity of Micrurus lemniscatus lemniscatus (South American coralsnake) venom. Toxicon 2020; 186:58-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Braga JRM, Jorge ARC, Marinho AD, Silveira JADM, Nogueira-Junior FA, Valle MB, Alagón A, de Menezes RRPPB, Martins AMC, Feijão LX, Monteiro HSA, Jorge RJB. Renal effects of venoms of Mexican coral snakes Micrurus browni and Micrurus laticollaris. Toxicon 2020; 181:45-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.04.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Soares TG, Santos JLD, Alvarenga VGD, Santos JSC, Leclercq SY, Faria CD, Oliveira MAA, Bemquerer MP, Sanchez EOF, de Lima ME, Figueiredo SG, Borges MH. Biochemical and functional properties of a new l-amino acid oxidase (LAAO) from Micrurus lemniscatus snake venom. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 154:1517-1527. [PMID: 31759013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study reports the purification of ML-LAAO, a new LAAO from the venom of Micrurus lemniscatus snake (ML-V), using size exclusion chromatography. ML-LAAO is a 69-kDa glycoprotein that represents ~2.0% of total venom proteins. This enzyme exhibited optimal activity at pH 8.5, displaying high specificity toward hydrophobic l-amino acids. MALDI TOF/TOF and Blast analysis identified internal segments in ML-LAAO that share high sequence identity with homologous snake venom LAAOs. Western blot analysis on two-dimensional SDS-PAGE of ML-V, using anti-LAAO revealed the presence of ML-LAAO isoforms (pI 6.3-8.9). ML-LAAO blocked aggregation induced by collagen on washed platelets in a rather weak manner, it did not, however, inhibit platelet aggregation induced by ADP on platelet-rich plasma. In addition, this enzyme displayed in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC/MBC of 0.39 μg/mL) and in vitro leishmanicidal action against Leishmania amazonensis and L. chagasi (IC50 values of 0.14 and 0.039 μg/mL, respectively). These activities were significantly reduced by catalase, suggesting that hydrogen peroxide production is involved in some way. The data presented here revealed that ML-LAAO has bactericidal and leishmanicidal effects, suggesting that it may have therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago Geraldo Soares
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Leal Dos Santos
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Janete Soares Coelho Santos
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sophie Yvette Leclercq
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carmem Dolores Faria
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Marcelo Porto Bemquerer
- Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia, Parque Estação Biológica, Av. W5 Norte (final), Asa Norte, 70770-917 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa da Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Rua Domingos Vieira, 590. Santa Efigência, 30150-240 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Suely Gomes Figueiredo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900 Vitória, Espiríto Santo, Brazil
| | - Márcia Helena Borges
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Medeiros CRD, Souza SND, Lara AN, Grego KF. Use of infrared thermography in a case of systemic envenomation by the coral snake Micrurus frontalis (Duméril et al., 1854) in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Toxicon 2019; 163:70-73. [PMID: 30905699 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Infrared thermography is a technique that quantifies the thermal (infrared) radiation emitted by an object and produces a high-resolution, digital thermal image of it. Medically, this technique is used to visualize the body's surface temperature distribution in a non-invasive, safe, and convenient fashion. However, to the best of our knowledge, the use of infrared thermography for assessing the systemic effects of envenomation by coral snakes has not been reported. In this case report, we describe the use of this technique in the management of a case of snakebite in Sao Paulo, Brazil. A 51-year-old woman was bitten on the back of the right hand by Micrurus frontalis, a species of coral snake, 10 min prior to her arrival at the hospital. Infrared imaging performed at admission revealed elevated temperatures at the bite site and in the elbow, as well as the preservation of a normal distal thermal gradient in both hands. A few minutes later, the patient developed muscle weakness in the upper limbs and in the eyelids, and infrared imaging showed an alteration of the thermal gradient in both hands, reflecting the systemic action of the venom. Following these observations, the patient was treated with the specific antivenom and was discharged 48 h post admission. At the two-week follow-up, the thermal image obtained showed no anomalies, indicating the recovery of the patient. Hence, infrared thermography can be very useful in the early identification of systemic neurotoxicity in cases of Micrurus snake bites, facilitating the decision to prescribe the antivenom.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Solange Nogueira de Souza
- Hospital Vital Brazil, Instituto Butantan, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil 1500, 05503-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Amanda Nazareth Lara
- Hospital Vital Brazil, Instituto Butantan, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil 1500, 05503-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Kathleen Fernandes Grego
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil 1500, 05503-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Wang Y, Zhang J, Zhang D, Xiao H, Xiong S, Huang C. Exploration of the Inhibitory Potential of Varespladib for Snakebite Envenomation. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23020391. [PMID: 29439513 PMCID: PMC6017252 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23020391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase A2s (PLA2) is a major component of snake venom with diverse pathologic toxicities and, therefore, a potential target for antivenom therapy. Varespladib was initially designed as an inhibitor of mammal PLA2s, and was recently repurposed to a broad-spectrum inhibitor of PLA2 in snake venom. To evaluate the protective abilities of varespladib to hemorrhage, myonecrosis, and systemic toxicities that are inflicted by different crude snake venoms, subcutaneous ecchymosis, muscle damage, and biochemical variation in serum enzymes derived from the envenomed mice were determined, respectively. Varespladib treatment showed a significant inhibitory effect to snake venom PLA2, which was estimated by IC50 in vitro and ED50 in vivo. In animal models, the severely hemorrhagic toxicity of D. acutus and A. halys venom was almost fully inhibited after administration of varespladib. Moreover, signs of edema in gastrocnemius muscle were remarkably attenuated by administration of varespladib, with a reduced loss of myonecrosis and desmin. Serum levels of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme 1, aspartate transaminase, and alanine transaminase were down-regulated after treatment with varespladib, which indicated the protection to viscera injury. In conclusion, varespladib may be a potential first-line drug candidate in snakebite envenomation first aid or clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiding Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
| | - Jing Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
| | - Denghong Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
| | - Huixiang Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
| | - Shengwei Xiong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
| | - Chunhong Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
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Wang Y, Sherchan P, Huang L, Akyol O, McBride DW, Zhang JH. Multiple mechanisms underlying neuroprotection by secretory phospholipase A2 preconditioning in a surgically induced brain injury rat model. Exp Neurol 2018; 300:30-40. [PMID: 29074417 PMCID: PMC5745263 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intra-operative bleeding, post-operative brain edema and neuroinflammation are major complications in patients with surgical brain injury (SBI). Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is the upstream enzyme which initiates the PLA2, 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) inflammatory pathway. We hypothesized PLA2preconditioning (PPC) prior to SBI can activate endogenous anti-inflammatory responses to protect against SBI. This study evaluated if PPC can ameliorate neurosurgical complications and elucidated PPC-mediated possible protective mechanisms in a rat SBI model. METHODS Total 105 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were used for this study. SBI was induced by partial resection of the right frontal lobe. PLA2 or 0.9% NaCl was injected via rats' tail vein for 3 consecutive days prior to SBI. For mechanism study, a selective PLA2 inhibitor, Manoalide and 5-LOX inhibitor, Zileuton were injected intravenously with PPC to elucidate the role of PLA2 and 5-LOX in PPC-mediated anti-inflammatory effects. Brain water content (BWC) and lung water content, neurological tests, ELISA, western blot, immunohistochemistry, white blood cells (WBC) count, and spectrophotometric assay for intra-operative hemorrhage volume were evaluated. RESULTS First, PPC reduced brain water content, intra-operative bleeding, and improved neurological function after SBI. Second, PPC decreased 5-LOX expression and brain leukocyte infiltration, while increasing glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in the peri-resection brain tissue after SBI. Third, PPC induced peripheral inflammation represented by mild pulmonary inflammation and increased peripheral blood WBC count and LTB4 level. Lastly, PPC increased blood glucose concentration and glucocorticoid levels after SBI. In addition, PPC mediated above-mentioned changes were partially reversed by administration of PLA2 inhibitor, Manoalide and 5-LOX inhibitor, Zileuton. CONCLUSIONS PPC conferred neuroprotection against SBI via multi-target involvement induced anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuechun Wang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
- Department of Physiology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Prativa Sherchan
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
| | - Onat Akyol
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
| | - Devin W. McBride
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
| | - John H. Zhang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, 92354, USA
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Snake Venom PLA 2, a Promising Target for Broad-Spectrum Antivenom Drug Development. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:6592820. [PMID: 29318152 PMCID: PMC5727668 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6592820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is a neglected global health problem, causing substantial mortality, disability, and psychological morbidity, especially in rural tropical and subtropical zones. Antivenin is currently the only specific medicine for envenomation. However, it is restricted by cold storage, snakebite diagnosis, and high price. Snake venom phospholipase A2s (svPLA2s) are found in all kinds of venomous snake families (e.g., Viperidae, Elapidae, and Colubridae). Along with their catalytic activity, svPLA2s elicit a wide variety of pharmacological effects that play a pivotal role in envenomation damage. Hence, neutralization of the svPLA2s could weaken or inhibit toxic damage. Here we overviewed the latest knowledge on the distribution, pathophysiological effects, and inhibitors of svPLA2s to elucidate the potential for a novel, wide spectrum antivenom drug targeting svPLA2s.
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Casais-e-Silva LL, Teixeira C. Neurogenic mediators contribute to local edema induced by Micrurus lemniscatus venom. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005874. [PMID: 29161255 PMCID: PMC5716551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Micrurus is one of the four snake genera of medical importance in Brazil. Coral snakes have a broad geographic distribution from the southern United States to Argentina. Micrurine envenomation is characterized by neurotoxic symptoms leading to dyspnea and death. Moreover, various local manifestations, including edema formation, have been described in patients bitten by different species of Micrurus. Thus, we investigated the ability of Micrurus lemniscatus venom (MLV) to induce local edema. We also explored mechanisms underlying this effect, focusing on participation of neuropeptides and mast cells. Methodology/Principal findings Intraplantar injection of MLV (1–10 μg/paw) in rats caused dose- and time-dependent edema with a peak between 15 min and 1 h after injection. MLV also induced degranulation of peritoneal mast cells (MCs). MC depletion by compound 48/80 markedly reduced MLV-induced edema. Pre-treatment (30 min) of rats with either promethazine a histamine H1 receptor antagonist or methysergide, a nonselective 5-HT receptor antagonist, reduced MLV-induced edema. However, neither thioperamide, a histamine H3/H4 receptor antagonist, nor co-injection of MLV with HOE-140, a BK2 receptor antagonist, altered the response. Depletion of neuropeptides by capsaicin or treatment of animals with NK1- and NK2-receptor antagonists (SR 140333 and SR 48968, respectively) markedly reduced MLV-induced edema. Conclusions/Significance In conclusion, MLV induces paw edema in rats by mechanisms involving activation of mast cells and substance P-releasing sensory C-fibers. Tachykinins NKA and NKB, histamine, and serotonin are major mediators of the MLV-induced edematogenic response. Targeting mast cell- and sensory C-fiber-derived mediators should be considered as potential therapeutic approaches to interrupt development of local edema induced by Micrurus venoms. Micrurus venoms have neurotoxic activity that is responsible for the serious sequelae in human envenomation. However, various local manifestations of envenoming have been described in patients bitten by different Micrurus species and edematogenic activity has been experimentally demonstrated. Despite the low frequency of edema in Micrurus envenomation, this effect can worsen the clinical manifestations. However, there are few studies on local inflammatory effects induced by Micrurus snake venom. We investigated the edematogenic effect of Micrurus lemniscatus venom (MLV) and participation of neuropeptides and mast cells in inflammation. Results demonstrate that MLV induces prominent edema with rapid onset. Using specific pharmacological interferences, we found that MLV-induced edema is dependent on activation of mast cells and substance P-releasing sensory C-fibers. NKA and NKB tachykinins, histamine via H1 receptor and serotonin are major mediators of the MLV-induced edematogenic response. These findings suggest that mast cell- and C-fiber-derived mediators are promising therapeutic targets to efficiently counteract the local edema induced by Micrururs venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Lyra Casais-e-Silva
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunoendocrinology and Toxinology, Department of Bioregulation, Institute of Health Sciences (ICS), Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Catarina Teixeira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Aird SD, da Silva NJ, Qiu L, Villar-Briones A, Saddi VA, Pires de Campos Telles M, Grau ML, Mikheyev AS. Coralsnake Venomics: Analyses of Venom Gland Transcriptomes and Proteomes of Six Brazilian Taxa. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:E187. [PMID: 28594382 PMCID: PMC5488037 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9060187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom gland transcriptomes and proteomes of six Micrurus taxa (M. corallinus, M. lemniscatus carvalhoi, M. lemniscatus lemniscatus, M. paraensis, M. spixii spixii, and M. surinamensis) were investigated, providing the most comprehensive, quantitative data on Micrurus venom composition to date, and more than tripling the number of Micrurus venom protein sequences previously available. The six venomes differ dramatically. All are dominated by 2-6 toxin classes that account for 91-99% of the toxin transcripts. The M. s. spixii venome is compositionally the simplest. In it, three-finger toxins (3FTxs) and phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) comprise >99% of the toxin transcripts, which include only four additional toxin families at levels ≥0.1%. Micrurus l. lemniscatus venom is the most complex, with at least 17 toxin families. However, in each venome, multiple structural subclasses of 3FTXs and PLA₂s are present. These almost certainly differ in pharmacology as well. All venoms also contain phospholipase B and vascular endothelial growth factors. Minor components (0.1-2.0%) are found in all venoms except that of M. s. spixii. Other toxin families are present in all six venoms at trace levels (<0.005%). Minor and trace venom components differ in each venom. Numerous novel toxin chemistries include 3FTxs with previously unknown 8- and 10-cysteine arrangements, resulting in new 3D structures and target specificities. 9-cysteine toxins raise the possibility of covalent, homodimeric 3FTxs or heterodimeric toxins with unknown pharmacologies. Probable muscarinic sequences may be reptile-specific homologs that promote hypotension via vascular mAChRs. The first complete sequences are presented for 3FTxs putatively responsible for liberating glutamate from rat brain synaptosomes. Micrurus C-type lectin-like proteins may have 6-9 cysteine residues and may be monomers, or homo- or heterodimers of unknown pharmacology. Novel KSPIs, 3× longer than any seen previously, appear to have arisen in three species by gene duplication and fusion. Four species have transcripts homologous to the nociceptive toxin, (MitTx) α-subunit, but all six species had homologs to the β-subunit. The first non-neurotoxic, non-catalytic elapid phospholipase A₂s are reported. All are probably myonecrotic. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the six taxa diverged 15-35 million years ago and that they split from their last common ancestor with Old World elapines nearly 55 million years ago. Given their early diversification, many cryptic micrurine taxa are anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Aird
- Division of Faculty Affairs, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
- Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
| | - Nelson Jorge da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás 74605-140, Brazil.
| | - Lijun Qiu
- Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
| | - Alejandro Villar-Briones
- Research Support Division, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
| | - Vera Aparecida Saddi
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás 74605-140, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Oncogenética e Radiobiologia da Associação de Combate ao Câncer em Goiás, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rua 239 no. 52-Setor Universitário, Goiânia, Goiás 74065-070, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Pires de Campos Telles
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás 74605-140, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Genética & Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás 74690-900, Brazil.
| | - Miguel L Grau
- Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
| | - Alexander S Mikheyev
- Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0495, Japan.
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Rey-Suárez P, Núñez V, Saldarriaga-Córdoba M, Lomonte B. Primary structures and partial toxicological characterization of two phospholipases A 2 from Micrurus mipartitus and Micrurus dumerilii coral snake venoms. Biochimie 2017; 137:88-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Oliveira FDR, Noronha MDDN, Lozano JLL. Biological and molecular properties of yellow venom of the Amazonian coral snake Micrurus surinamensis. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2017; 50:365-373. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0408-2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Lomonte B, Rey-Suárez P, Fernández J, Sasa M, Pla D, Vargas N, Bénard-Valle M, Sanz L, Corrêa-Netto C, Núñez V, Alape-Girón A, Alagón A, Gutiérrez JM, Calvete JJ. Venoms of Micrurus coral snakes: Evolutionary trends in compositional patterns emerging from proteomic analyses. Toxicon 2016; 122:7-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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20
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Lewin M, Samuel S, Merkel J, Bickler P. Varespladib (LY315920) Appears to Be a Potent, Broad-Spectrum, Inhibitor of Snake Venom Phospholipase A2 and a Possible Pre-Referral Treatment for Envenomation. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8090248. [PMID: 27571102 PMCID: PMC5037474 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8090248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakebite remains a neglected medical problem of the developing world with up to 125,000 deaths each year despite more than a century of calls to improve snakebite prevention and care. An estimated 75% of fatalities from snakebite occur outside the hospital setting. Because phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity is an important component of venom toxicity, we sought candidate PLA2 inhibitors by directly testing drugs. Surprisingly, varespladib and its orally bioavailable prodrug, methyl-varespladib showed high-level secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) inhibition at nanomolar and picomolar concentrations against 28 medically important snake venoms from six continents. In vivo proof-of-concept studies with varespladib had striking survival benefit against lethal doses of Micrurus fulvius and Vipera berus venom, and suppressed venom-induced sPLA2 activity in rats challenged with 100% lethal doses of M. fulvius venom. Rapid development and deployment of a broad-spectrum PLA2 inhibitor alone or in combination with other small molecule inhibitors of snake toxins (e.g., metalloproteases) could fill the critical therapeutic gap spanning pre-referral and hospital setting. Lower barriers for clinical testing of safety tested, repurposed small molecule therapeutics are a potentially economical and effective path forward to fill the pre-referral gap in the setting of snakebite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lewin
- Research and Development, Ophirex, Inc., Corte Madera, CA 94925, USA.
- Center for Exploration and Travel Health, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
| | - Stephen Samuel
- General Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn, Norfolk PE30 4ET, UK.
| | - Janie Merkel
- Yale Center for Molecular Discovery, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.
| | - Philip Bickler
- Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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Bucaretchi F, De Capitani EM, Vieira RJ, Rodrigues CK, Zannin M, Da Silva NJ, Casais-e-Silva LL, Hyslop S. Coral snake bites (Micrurus spp.) in Brazil: a review of literature reports. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2016; 54:222-34. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2015.1135337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Bucaretchi
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Mello De Capitani
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ronan José Vieira
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cinthia K. Rodrigues
- Santa Catarina Poison Control Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Marlene Zannin
- Santa Catarina Poison Control Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
- Department of Pathology, Health Science Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Nelson J. Da Silva
- Department of Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | | | - Stephen Hyslop
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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Carregari VC, Dai J, Verano-Braga T, Rocha T, Ponce-Soto LA, Marangoni S, Roepstorff P. Revealing the functional structure of a new PLA2 K49 from Bothriopsis taeniata snake venom employing automatic “de novo” sequencing using CID/HCD/ETD MS/MS analyses. J Proteomics 2016; 131:131-139. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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de Carvalho ND, Garcia RC, Ferreira AK, Batista DR, Cassola AC, Maria D, Lebrun I, Carneiro SM, Afeche SC, Marcourakis T, Sandoval MRL. Neurotoxicity of coral snake phospholipases A2 in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Brain Res 2014; 1552:1-16. [PMID: 24480475 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The neurotoxicity of two secreted Phospholipases A2 from Brazilian coral snake venom in rat primary hippocampal cell culture was investigated. Following exposure to Mlx-8 or Mlx-9 toxins, an increase in free cytosolic Ca(2+) and a reduction in mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) became evident and occurred prior to the morphological changes and cytotoxicity. Exposure of hippocampal neurons to Mlx-8 or Mlx-9 caused a decrease in the cell viability as assessed by MTT and LDH assays. Inspection using fluorescent images and ultrastructural analysis by scanning and transmission electron microscopy showed that multiphase injury is characterized by overlapping cell death phenotypes. Shrinkage, membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation, nucleosomal DNA fragmentation and the formation of apoptotic bodies were observed. The most striking alteration observed in the electron microscopy was the fragmentation and rarefaction of the neuron processes network. Degenerated terminal synapses, cell debris and apoptotic bodies were observed among the fragmented fibers. Numerous large vacuoles as well as swollen mitochondria and dilated Golgi were noted. Necrotic signs such as a large amount of cellular debris and membrane fragmentation were observed mainly when the cells were exposed to highest concentration of the PLA2-neurotoxins. PLA2s exposed cultures showed cytoplasmic vacuoles filled with cell debris, clusters of mitochondria presented mitophagy-like structures that are in accordance to patterns of programmed cell death by autophagy. Finally, we demonstrated that the sPLA2s, Mlx-8 and Mlx-9, isolated from the Micrurus lemniscatus snake venom induce a hybrid cell death with apoptotic, autophagic and necrotic features. Furthermore, this study suggests that the augment in free cytosolic Ca(2+) and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in the neurotoxicity of Elapid coral snake venom sPLA2s.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raphael CaioTamborelli Garcia
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 000, Brazil
| | - Adilson Kleber Ferreira
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP 05503 900, Brazil
| | - Daniel Rodrigo Batista
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Cassola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Durvanei Maria
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP 05503 900, Brazil
| | - Ivo Lebrun
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP 05503 900, Brazil
| | | | - Solange Castro Afeche
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP 05503 900, Brazil
| | - Tania Marcourakis
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 000, Brazil
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Neuromuscular activity of Micrurus laticollaris (Squamata: Elapidae) venom in vitro. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:359-70. [PMID: 24445448 PMCID: PMC3920266 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6010359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we have examined the neuromuscular activity of Micrurus laticollaris (Mexican coral snake) venom (MLV) in vertebrate isolated nerve-muscle preparations. In chick biventer cervicis preparations, the MLV induced an irreversible concentration- and time-dependent (1–30 µg/mL) neuromuscular blockade, with 50% blockade occurring between 8 and 30 min. Muscle contractures evoked by exogenous acetylcholine were completely abolished by MLV, whereas those of KCl were also significantly altered (86% ± 11%, 53% ± 11%, 89% ± 5% and 89% ± 7% for one, three, 10 and 30 µg of venom/mL, respectively; n = 4; p < 0.05). In mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparations, MLV (1–10 µg/mL) promoted a slight increase in the amplitude of twitch-tension (3 µg/mL), followed by neuromuscular blockade (n = 4); the highest concentration caused complete inhibition of the twitches (time for 50% blockade = 26 ± 3 min), without exhibiting a previous neuromuscular facilitation. The venom (3 µg/mL) induced a biphasic modulation in the frequency of miniature end-plate potentials (MEPPs)/min, causing a significant increase after 15 min, followed by a decrease after 60 min (from 17 ± 1.4 (basal) to 28 ± 2.5 (t15) and 12 ± 2 (t60)). The membrane resting potential of mouse diaphragm preparations pre-exposed or not to d-tubocurarine (5 µg/mL) was also significantly less negative with MLV (10 µg/mL). Together, these results indicate that M. laticollaris venom induces neuromuscular blockade by a combination of pre- and post-synaptic activities.
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Bénard-Valle M, Carbajal-Saucedo A, de Roodt A, López-Vera E, Alagón A. Biochemical characterization of the venom of the coral snake Micrurus tener and comparative biological activities in the mouse and a reptile model. Toxicon 2013; 77:6-15. [PMID: 24161616 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify the venom components that could play a relevant role during envenomation caused by the coral snake Micrurus tener, through its biochemical characterization as well as the analysis of its effects on a murine model. Furthermore, it aimed to evaluate crude venom, in addition to its components, for possible specificity of action on a natural prey model (Conopsis lineata). The toxicity of the crude venom (delivered subcutaneously) showed a significant difference between the Median Lethal Dose (LD₅₀) in mice (4.4 μg/g) and in Conopsis lineata (12.1 μg/g) that was not observed when comparing the Median Paralyzing Dose (PD₅₀) values (mice = 4.7 μg/g; snakes = 4.1 μg/g). These results are evidence that the choice of study model strongly influences the apparent effects of crude venom. Moreover, based on the observed physical signs in the animal models, it was concluded that the most important physical effect caused by the venom is flaccid paralysis, which facilitates capture and subduing of prey regardless of whether it is alive; death is a logical consequence of the lack of oxygenation. Venom fractionation using a C18 reverse phase column yielded 35 fractions from which 16.6% caused paralysis and/or death to both animal models, 21.9% caused paralysis and/or death only to C. lineata and 1.6% were murine specific. Surprisingly, the diversity of snake-specific fractions did not reflect a difference between the PD₅₀s of the crude venom in mice and snakes, making it impossible to assume some type of specificity for either of the study models. Finally, the great diversity and abundance of fractions with no observable effect in snakes or mice (42.7%) suggested that the observed lethal fractions are not the only relevant toxic fractions within the venom and emphasized the possible relevance of interaction between components to generate the syndrome caused by the venom as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melisa Bénard-Valle
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, CP: 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Carbajal-Saucedo
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, CP: 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Adolfo de Roodt
- Laboratorio de Toxinopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Uriburu 950, 5° Piso, CABA, Argentina
| | - Estuardo López-Vera
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Circuito Exterior S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegación Coyoacán, CP: 04510 México D.F., Mexico
| | - Alejandro Alagón
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, CP: 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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Wood A, Schauben J, Thundiyil J, Kunisaki T, Sollee D, Lewis-Younger C, Bernstein J, Weisman R. Review of Eastern coral snake (Micrurus fulvius fulvius) exposures managed by the Florida Poison Information Center Network: 1998-2010. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2013; 51:783-8. [PMID: 23962099 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2013.828841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Envenomation by the Eastern coral snake is rare but may be associated with significant morbidity. While effective, acquisition of North American Coral Snake Antivenin (NACSAV) is difficult because production was discontinued for many years. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to characterize coral snake exposures in Florida and determine the effects of varying treatment paradigms on patient outcomes. METHODS This study is an observational case series of cases received at Florida poison centers. Included cases were Eastern coral snake exposures occurring between January 1, 1998 and October 31, 2010. Excluded cases included those found to be unrelated or those not followed for at least 24 h post envenomation. Case comments were reviewed to obtain data. Comparisons were made between asymptomatic patients receiving empiric antivenom therapy (empiric group) and those asymptomatic patients who received antivenom upon developing signs of systemic envenomation (withhold group). RESULTS Of the 553 cases identified, 387 were included in the final analysis. According to case comments, 56.3% of patients had no reported systemic symptoms. Most commonly, patients were reported to have pain (40.6%), paresthesias (28.4%), nausea (12.7%), and emesis (11.4%). NACSAV was administered to 252 patients (65%). Of those patients receiving NACSAV, 18.25% were reported to have had an adverse reaction. Patients in the withhold group (n = 106) had significantly fewer minor, moderate, and major outcomes than patients in the empiric group (n = 134, p < 0.01). DISCUSSION While patients in the withhold group had favorable outcomes compared with those in the empiric group, this strategy cannot be applied to all patients presenting asymptomatic to healthcare facilities due to study limitations. CONCLUSION Further studies are needed to determine what treatment strategy is most appropriate for asymptomatic patients presenting to healthcare facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wood
- Department of Pharmacy, Nemours Children's Hospital , Orlando, FL , USA
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Roodt ARD, de Titto E, Dolab JA, Chippaux JP. Envenoming by coral snakes (Micrurus) in Argentina, during the period between 1979-2003. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2013; 55:13-8. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652013000100003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Envenomation by coral snakes (Micrurus sp.) is one of the most dangerous injuries in America and it is considered as a serious medical emergency, however bites by these snakes appear to be rare. We analyzed epidemiological data, clinical signs and antivenom use in Argentina during the period between 1979-2003. During this period of study 46 non-fatal Micrurus bites were reported. The majority of cases were men from 31 to 40 years old. Bites occurred primarily in spring and summer. Most cases were reported from the northeast and northwest provinces of the country. The bites were mostly located on hands or feet and occurred mostly during agricultural activities and so mainly involved farmers. Only four cases occurred as a result of handling snakes. The median time it took for antivenom to be administrated was 60 minutes after the bite, and the median number of vials applied was 2. Local pain was mentioned and edema was reported in 41% of patients. All patients recovered without sequelae. This study showed a low incidence of Micrurus bites and low severity of envenomation. However, although no deaths have been reported during the last 30 years, given the toxicity of the venom of Micrurus snakes, the risk of severe envenomation should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ernesto de Titto
- Dirección Nacional de Determinantes de Salud e Investigación, República Argentina
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Huancahuire-Vega S, Corrêa DHA, Hollanda LM, Lancellotti M, Ramos CHI, Ponce-Soto LA, Marangoni S. Chemical modifications of PhTX-I myotoxin from Porthidium hyoprora snake venom: effects on structural, enzymatic, and pharmacological properties. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2012; 2013:103494. [PMID: 23484072 PMCID: PMC3591178 DOI: 10.1155/2013/103494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
We recently described the isolation of a basic PLA2 (PhTX-I) from Porthidium hyoprora snake venom. This toxin exhibits high catalytic activity, induces in vivo myotoxicity, moderates footpad edema, and causes in vitro neuromuscular blockade. Here, we describe the chemical modifications of specific amino acid residues (His, Tyr, Lys, and Trp), performed in PhTX-I, to study their effects on the structural, enzymatic, and pharmacological properties of this myotoxin. After chemical treatment, a single His, 4 Tyr, 7 Lys, and one Trp residues were modified. The secondary structure of the protein remained unchanged as measured by circular dichroism; however other results indicated the critical role played by Lys and Tyr residues in myotoxic, neurotoxic activities and mainly in the cytotoxicity displayed by PhTX-I. His residue and therefore catalytic activity of PhTX-I are relevant for edematogenic, neurotoxic, and myotoxic effects, but not for its cytotoxic activity. This dissociation observed between enzymatic activity and some pharmacological effects suggests that other molecular regions distinct from the catalytic site may also play a role in the toxic activities exerted by this myotoxin. Our observations supported the hypothesis that both the catalytic sites as the hypothetical pharmacological sites are relevant to the pharmacological profile of PhTX-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salomón Huancahuire-Vega
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6109, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel H. A. Corrêa
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana M. Hollanda
- Biotechnology Laboratory (LABIOTEC), Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Lancellotti
- Biotechnology Laboratory (LABIOTEC), Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos H. I. Ramos
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology for Structural Biology and Bioimaging, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luis Alberto Ponce-Soto
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6109, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Marangoni
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6109, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Leite dos Santos GG, Casais e Silva LL, Pereira Soares MB, Villarreal CF. Antinociceptive properties of Micrurus lemniscatus venom. Toxicon 2012; 60:1005-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2012] [Revised: 05/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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de Roodt AR, Lago NR, Stock RP. Myotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by Micrurus venoms in experimental envenomation. Toxicon 2012; 59:356-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2011] [Revised: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 11/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Ciscotto PHC, Rates B, Silva DAF, Richardson M, Silva LP, Andrade H, Donato MF, Cotta GA, Maria WS, Rodrigues RJ, Sanchez E, De Lima ME, Pimenta AMC. Venomic analysis and evaluation of antivenom cross-reactivity of South American Micrurus species. J Proteomics 2011; 74:1810-25. [PMID: 21803179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2011.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2011] [Revised: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Coral snakes from Micrurus genus are the main representatives of the Elapidae family in South America. However, biochemical and pharmacological features regarding their venom constituents remain poorly investigated. Here, venomic analyses were carried out aiming at a deeper understanding on the composition of M. frontalis, M. ibiboboca, and M. lemniscatus venoms. In the three venoms investigated, proteins ranging from 6 to 8 kDa (3FTx) and 12 to 14 kDa (PLA(2)) were found to be the most abundant. Also, the N-terminal sequences of four new proteins, purified from the M. lemniscatus venom, similar to 3FTx, PLA(2) and Kunitz-type protease inhibitor from other Micrurus and elapid venoms are reported. Cross-reactivity among different Micrurus venoms and homologous or heterologous antivenoms was carried out by means of 2D-electrophoresis and immunoblotting. As, expected, the heterologous anti-Elapid venom displayed the highest degree of cross-reactivity. Conversely, anti-M. corallinus reacted weakly against the tested venoms. In gel digestions, followed by mass spectrometry sequencing and similarity searching, revealed the most immunogenic protein families as similar to short and long neurotoxins, weak neurotoxins, PLA(2), β-bungarotoxin, venom protein E2, frontoxin III, LAO and C-type lectin. The implications of our results for the production of Micrurus antivenoms are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula H C Ciscotto
- Laboratório de Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Salazar AM, Vivas J, Sánchez EE, Rodríguez-Acosta A, Ibarra C, Gil A, Carvajal Z, Girón ME, Estrella A, Navarrete LF, Guerrero B. Hemostatic and toxinological diversities in venom of Micrurus tener tener, Micrurus fulvius fulvius and Micrurus isozonus coral snakes. Toxicon 2011; 58:35-45. [PMID: 21596052 PMCID: PMC3304457 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The coral snake Micrurus tener tener (Mtt) from the Elapidae family inhabits the southwestern United States and produces severe cases of envenomations. Although the majority of Mtt venom components are neurotoxins and phospholipase A₂s, this study demonstrated, by SDS-PAGE and molecular exclusion chromatography (MEC), that these venoms also contain high-molecular-weight proteins between 50 and 150 kDa that target the hemostatic system. The biological aspects of other Micrurus venoms were also studied, such as the LD₅₀s of Micrurus isozonus (from 0.52 to 0.61 mg/kg). A pool from these venoms presented a LD₅₀ of 0.57 mg/kg, Micrurus f. fulvius (Mff) and Mtt had LD₅₀s of 0.32 and 0.78 mg/kg, respectively. These venoms contained fibrino(geno)lytic activity, they inhibited platelet aggregation, as well as factor Xa and/or plasmin-like activities. M. isozonus venoms from different Venezuelan geographical regions inhibited ADP-induced platelet aggregation (from 50 to 68%). Micrurus tener tener venom from the United States was the most active with a 95.2% inhibitory effect. This venom showed thrombin-like activity on fibrinogen and human plasma. Fractions of Mtt showed fibrino(geno)lytic activity and inhibition on plasmin amidolytic activity. Several fractions degraded the fibrinogen Aα chains, and fractions F2 and F7 completely degraded both fibrinogen Aα and Bβ chains. To our knowledge, this is the first report on thrombin-like and fibrino(geno)lytic activity and plasmin or factor Xa inhibitors described in Micrurus venoms. Further purification and characterization of these Micrurus venom components could be of therapeutic use in the treatment of hemostatic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Salazar
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Jeilyn Vivas
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Elda E. Sánchez
- Department of Chemistry and The National Natural Toxins Research Center, Texas A & M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
| | - Alexis Rodríguez-Acosta
- Sección de Inmunoquímica, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Laboratorio de Inmunoquímica y Ultraestructura, Instituto Anatómico de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Carlos Ibarra
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Amparo Gil
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Zoila Carvajal
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - María E. Girón
- Sección de Inmunoquímica, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Laboratorio de Inmunoquímica y Ultraestructura, Instituto Anatómico de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Amalid Estrella
- Sección de Inmunoquímica, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Laboratorio de Inmunoquímica y Ultraestructura, Instituto Anatómico de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Luis F. Navarrete
- Sección de Inmunoquímica, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de la Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Belsy Guerrero
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología, Centro de Medicina Experimental, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Apartado 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
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Frontoxins, three-finger toxins from Micrurus frontalis venom, decrease miniature endplate potential amplitude at frog neuromuscular junction. Toxicon 2010; 56:55-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2010.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Revised: 02/05/2010] [Accepted: 02/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Oliveira D, Harasawa C, Seibert C, Casais e Silva L, Pimenta D, Lebrun I, Sandoval M. Phospholipases A2 isolated from Micrurus lemniscatus coral snake venom: Behavioral, electroencephalographic, and neuropathological aspects. Brain Res Bull 2008; 75:629-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2007.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2007] [Revised: 10/10/2007] [Accepted: 10/17/2007] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Sánchez EE, Lopez-Johnston JC, Rodríguez-Acosta A, Pérez JC. Neutralization of two North American coral snake venoms with United States and Mexican antivenoms. Toxicon 2007; 51:297-303. [PMID: 18054059 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2007.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2007] [Revised: 10/05/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Elapid snakes throughout the world are considered very lethal, containing neurotoxic venoms that affect the nervous system. When humans are envenomated it is considered a serious medical emergency, and antivenom is the main form of treatment considered, in spite of the fact that some patients may only survive under intensive therapy treatment such as respiratory support. Coral snakes are part of the family Elapidae and envenomations by these snakes are very low (<2% of total snakebites) in most countries from southeastern United States to Argentina. In the United States, there are only two species of coral snakes of medical importance that belong to the Micrurus genera: Micrurus fulvius fulvius (Eastern coral snake) and Micrurus tener tener (Texas coral snake). In 2006, Wyeth pharmaceutical notified customers that the production of the North American coral snake antivenin (NACSA) in the US was discontinued and adequate supplies were available to meet historical needs through the end of October 2008; and therefore, it is of utmost important to consider other antivenoms as alternatives for the treatment of coral snake envenoming. One logical alternative is the coral snake antivenom, Coralmyn, produced by the Mexican company, Bioclon. In order to compare neutralization between NACSA and Coralmyn antivenoms with the North American coral snake venoms, the venom lethal doses (LD(50)) and antivenom effective doses (ED(50)) were determined in 18-20 g, female, BALB/c mice. Additionally, venom comparisons were determined through a non-reduced SDS-PAGE for M.f.fulvius, M.t.tener and the Mexican coral snake venom, Micrurus nigrocinctus nigrocinctus. Coralmyn antivenom was able to effectively neutralize three LD(50) doses of all venom from both M.t.tener and M.f.fulvius, while Wyeth antivenom only neutralized M.f.fulvius venom and was not effective in neutralizing three LD(50) doses of M.t.tener venom. Coralmyn is effective in the neutralization of both clinically important coral snake venoms in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elda E Sánchez
- Natural Toxins Research Center, 975 W. Avenue B, MSC 158, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA.
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Bucaretchi F, Hyslop S, Vieira RJ, Toledo AS, Madureira PR, de Capitani EM. Bites by coral snakes (Micrurus spp.) in Campinas, State of São Paulo, Southeastern Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2006; 48:141-5. [PMID: 16847503 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652006000300005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Coral snakes (Micrurus spp.) are the main representatives of the Elapidae in South America. However, bites by these snakes are uncommon. We retrospectively reviewed the data from 11 individuals bitten by coral snakes over a 20-year period; four were confirmed (snake brought for identification) and seven were highly suspected (neuromuscular manifestations) cases of elapid envenoming. The cases were classified as dry-bite (n = 1, caused by M. lemniscatus; did not receive antivenom), mild (n = 2, local manifestations with no acute myasthenic syndrome; M. frontalis and Micrurus spp.), moderate (n = 5, mild myasthenia) or severe (n = 3, important myasthenia; one of them caused by M. frontalis). The main clinical features upon admission were paresthesia (local, n = 9; generalized, n = 2), local pain (n = 8), palpebral ptosis (n = 8), weakness (n = 4) and inability to stand up (n = 3). No patient developed respiratory failure. Antivenom was used in ten cases, with mild early reactions occurring in three. An anticholinesterase drug was administered in the three severe cases, with a good response in two. No deaths were observed. Despite the high toxicity of coral snake venoms, the prognosis following envenoming is good. In serious bites by M. frontalis or M. lemniscatus, the venom of which acts postsynaptically, anticholinesterases may be useful as an ancillary measure if antivenom is unavailable, if there is a delay in obtaining a sufficient amount, or in those patients given the highest recommended doses of antivenom without improvement of the paralysis or with delayed recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Bucaretchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMO), Hospital das Clínicas, 13083-970 Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Belo CAD, Toyama MH, Toyama DDO, Marangoni S, Moreno FB, Cavada BS, Fontana MD, Hyslop S, Carneiro EM, Boschero AC. Determination of the Amino Acid Sequence of a New Phospholipase A2 (MIDCA1) Isolated from Micrurus dumerilii carinicauda Venom. Protein J 2005; 24:147-53. [PMID: 16096720 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-005-7838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A new Phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) from Micrurus dumerilii carinicauda venom was isolated and its primary structure determined. This new PLA(2) showed a low enzymatic activity when compared with other PLA(2)s and it is moderately basic with an isoelectric point of 8.0. Its amino acid sequence showed the presence of 120 amino acid residues and its sequence was: NLIQFLNMIQCTTPGREPLVAFANYGCYCGRGGSGTPVDELDRCCQVHDNCYDTAKKVFGCSPYFTMYSYDCSEGKLTCKDNNTKCKAAVCNCDRTAALCFAKAPYNDKNYKIDLTKRCQ. The structural model of MIDCA1, when compared with other strong neurotoxic PLA(2)s, such as Naja naja, showed significant differences in the beta-wing and neurotoxic sites, despite the high level of amino acid sequence similarity. These observations indicate a dissociation between the biological and catalytic activity of this new PLA(2), supporting the view that other regions of the protein are involved in the biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cháriston A Dal Belo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Cecchini AL, Marcussi S, Silveira LB, Borja-Oliveira CR, Rodrigues-Simioni L, Amara S, Stábeli RG, Giglio JR, Arantes EC, Soares AM. Biological and enzymatic activities of Micrurus sp. (Coral) snake venoms. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2005; 140:125-34. [PMID: 15664321 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2004.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2004] [Revised: 11/11/2004] [Accepted: 11/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The venoms of Micrurus lemniscatus carvalhoi, Micrurus frontalis frontalis, Micrurus surinamensis surinamensis and Micrurus nigrocinctus nigrocinctus were assayed for biological activities. Although showing similar liposome disrupting and myotoxic activities, M. frontalis frontalis and M. nigrocinctus nigrocinctus displayed higher anticoagulant and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activities. The latter induced a higher edema response within 30 min. Both venoms were the most toxic as well. In the isolated chick biventer cervicis preparation, M. lemniscatus carvalhoi venom blocked the indirectly elicited twitch-tension response (85+/-0.6% inhibition after a 15 min incubation at 5 microg of venom/mL) and the response to acetylcholine (ACh; 55 or 110 microM), without affecting the response to KCl (13.4 mM). In mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparation, the venom (5 microg/mL) produced a complete inhibition of the indirectly elicited contractile response after 50 min incubation and did not affect the contractions elicited by direct stimulation. M. lemniscatus carvalhoi inhibited 3H-L-glutamate uptake in brain synaptosomes in a Ca2+-, but not time, dependent manner. The replacement of Ca2+ by Sr2+ and ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether) (EGTA), or alkylation of the venom with p-bromophenacyl bromide (BPB), inhibited 3H-L-glutamate uptake. M. lemniscatus carvalhoi venom cross-reacted with postsynaptic alpha-neurotoxins short-chain (antineurotoxin-II) and long-chain (antibungarotoxin) antibodies. It also cross-reacted with antimyotoxic PLA2 antibodies from M. nigrocinctus nigrocinctus (antinigroxin). Our results point to the need of catalytic activity for these venoms to exert their neurotoxic activity efficiently and to their components as attractive tools for the study of molecular targets on cell membranes.
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de Roodt AR, Paniagua-Solis JF, Dolab JA, Estévez-Ramiréz J, Ramos-Cerrillo B, Litwin S, Dokmetjian JC, Alagón A. Effectiveness of Two Common Antivenoms for North, Central, and South AmericanMicrurusEnvenomations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 42:171-8. [PMID: 15214622 DOI: 10.1081/clt-120030943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Micrurus snakes (coral snakes) may produce severe envenomation that can lead to death by peripheral respiratory paralysis. Only few laboratories produce specific antivenoms, and despite the cross-reactivity found in some Micrurus species venoms, the treatment is not always effective. To test two therapeutic antivenoms against the venom of four species of Micrurus from Southern America, North of South America, Central America, and North America, the determination of the lethal potency of the venoms, the study of some biochemical and immunochemical characteristics, and the determination of the neutralizing activity of both antivenoms were studied. North American and South American antivenoms neutralized well venoms from Micrurus species of the corresponding hemisphere but displayed lower effectiveness against venoms of species from different hemispheres. It was concluded that the neutralization of Micrurus venoms by regional antivenoms could be useful to treat the envenomation by some Micrurus snakes but is necessary to evaluate carefully the antivenoms to be used with the venoms from the snakes of the region. Also, considering the difficulties for coral snake antivenom production, the development of a polyvalent antivenom is useful to treat the envenomation by coral snakes from different regions is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo R de Roodt
- Area de Investigación y Desarrollo/Serpentario, Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos-A.N.L.I.S. Dr. Carlos G. Malbran, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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40
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Urdaneta AH, Bolaños F, Gutiérrez JM. Feeding behavior and venom toxicity of coral snake Micrurus nigrocinctus (Serpentes: Elapidae) on its natural prey in captivity. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2004; 138:485-92. [PMID: 15536056 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2004.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2004] [Revised: 08/16/2004] [Accepted: 08/22/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The feeding behavior and venom toxicity of the coral snake Micrurus nigrocinctus (Serpentes: Elapidae) on its natural prey in captivity were investigated. Coral snakes searched for their prey (the colubrid snake Geophis godmani) in the cages. Once their preys were located, coral snakes stroke them with a rapid forward movement, biting predominantly in the anterior region of the body. In order to assess the role of venom in prey restraint and ingestion, a group of coral snakes was 'milked' in order to drastically reduce the venom content in their glands. Significant differences were observed between snakes with venom, i.e., 'nonmilked' snakes, and 'milked' snakes regarding their behavior after the bite. The former remained hold to the prey until paralysis was achieved, whereas the latter, in the absence of paralysis, moved their head towards the head of the prey and bit the skull to achieve prey immobilization by mechanical means. There were no significant differences in the time of ingestion between these two groups of coral snakes. Susceptibility to the lethal effect of coral snake venom greatly differed in four colubrid species; G. godmani showed the highest susceptibility, followed by Geophis brachycephalus, whereas Ninia psephota and Ninia maculata were highly resistant to this venom. In addition, the blood serum of N. maculata, but not that of G. brachycephalus, prolonged the time of death of mice injected with 2 LD(50)s of M. nigrocinctus venom, when venom and blood serum were incubated before testing. Subcutaneous injection of coral snake venom in G. godmani induced neurotoxicity and myotoxicity, without causing hemorrhage and without affecting heart and lungs. It is concluded that (a) M. nigrocinctus venom plays a role in prey immobilization, (b) venom induces neurotoxic and myotoxic effects in colubrid snakes which comprise part of their natural prey, and (c) some colubrid snakes of the genus Ninia present a conspicuous resistance to the toxic action of M. nigrocinctus venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo H Urdaneta
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
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41
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Armugam A, Gong N, Li X, Siew PY, Chai SC, Nair R, Jeyaseelan K. Group IB phospholipase A2 from Pseudonaja textilis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2004; 421:10-20. [PMID: 14678780 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2003.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pseudonaja textilis, an Australian Elapid, is known to produce a highly toxic venom. Both protein profiling and N-terminal sequence analysis showed the presence of four new phospholipases A(2) in this venom. Besides being non-lethal, the phospholipase A(2) proteins were found to be moderately active enzymes and they showed procoagulant property. cDNA cloning and characterization indicated the presence of two isoforms of PLA(2) proteins in a single snake, each containing the "pancreatic loop," characteristic of group IB phospholipase A(2). The genomic cloning also confirmed the presence of two genes each containing four exons that are interrupted by three introns. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the venom group IB PLA(2) gene is primitive and could have evolved from the same ancestor as the mammalian and venom group IA PLA(2) genes. In the present study, we report that the Pt-PLA2 gene could be responsible for the production of PL1, 2, and 3 possibly via RNA editing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunmozhiarasi Armugam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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42
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Moraes FV, Sousa-e-Silva MCC, Barbaro KC, Leitão MA, Furtado MFD. Biological and immunochemical characterization of Micrurus altirostris venom and serum neutralization of its toxic activities. Toxicon 2003; 41:71-9. [PMID: 12467664 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-0101(02)00211-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Micrurus altirostris venom from Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, was characterized by its biological activities, immunochemical properties and electrophoretic pattern. The results showed a high edematogenic activity, whose peak was observed after 30min of venom injection, as well as a high indirect hemolytic activity. This venom was myotoxic, as shown by a peak of CK release at 6h after injection, and also by the appearance of muscular lesions characterized by necrosis, loss of striated muscle fibers, and the presence of vacuolization, edema and inflammatory infiltrate. This venom showed minimum proteolytic activity and no hemorrhagic, dermonecrotic or coagulant activities. Nonetheless, M. altirostris venom presented high lethal activity. Electrophoretic patterns of Micrurus frontalis and M. altirostris venoms showed different protein bands. Anti-elapidic serum could recognize M. frontalis (homologous) and M. altirostris (heterologous) venoms by Western blotting, and both venoms presented similar titers when assayed by ELISA. The results observed on neutralization tests showed that the anti-elapidic serum produced by Instituto Butantan neutralized myotoxic and hemolytic activities. However, this antivenom could not neutralize the lethal activity of M. altirostris venom. Thus, these data suggest that M. altirostris venom presents different biological, enzymatic and immunological characteristics from other Micrurus venoms, and some activities are not neutralized by the commercial anti-elapidic serum produced in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- F V Moraes
- Laboratório de Fisiopatologia, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil, 1500, 05503-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Gasparello-Clemente E, Silveira PF. Fluorometric assay using naphthylamide substrates for assessing novel venom peptidase activities. Toxicon 2002; 40:1617-26. [PMID: 12419513 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-0101(02)00180-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In the present study we examined the feasibility of using the fluorometry of naphthylamine derivatives for revealing peptidase activities in venoms of the snakes Bothrops jararaca, Bothrops alternatus, Bothrops atrox, Bothrops moojeni, Bothrops insularis, Crotalus durissus terrificus and Bitis arietans, of the scorpions Tityus serrulatus and Tityus bahiensis, and of the spiders Phoneutria nigriventer and Loxosceles intermedia. Neutral aminopeptidase (APN) and prolyl-dipeptidyl aminopeptidase IV (DPP IV) activities were presented in all snake venoms, with the highest levels in B. alternatus. Although all examined peptidase activities showed relatively low levels in arthropod venoms, basic aminopeptidase (APB) activity from P. nigriventer venom was the exception. Compared to the other peptidase activities, relatively high levels of acid aminopeptidase (APA) activity were restricted to B. arietans venom. B. arietans also exhibited a prominent content of APB activity which was lower in other venoms. Relatively low prolyl endopeptidase and proline iminopeptidase activities were, respectively, detectable only in T. bahiensis and B. insularis. Pyroglutamate aminopeptidase activity was undetectable in all venoms. All examined peptidase activities were undetectable in T. serrulatus venom. In this study, the specificities of a diverse array of peptidase activities from representative venoms were demonstrated for the first time, with a description of their distribution which may contribute to guiding further investigations. The expressive difference between snake and arthropod venoms was indicated by APN and DPP IV activities while APA and APB activities distinguished the venom of B. arietans from those of Brazilian snakes. The data reflected the relatively uniform qualitative distribution of the peptidase activities investigated, together with their unequal quantitative distribution, indicating the evolutionary divergence in the processing of peptides in these different venoms and/or the different abilities of the venoms examined to hydrolyze different peptides during envenomation.
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Abstract
Snake envenomation employs three well integrated strategies: prey immobilization via hypotension, prey immobilization via paralysis, and prey digestion. Purines (adenosine, guanosine and inosine) evidently play a central role in the envenomation strategies of most advanced snakes. Purines constitute the perfect multifunctional toxins, participating simultaneously in all three envenomation strategies. Because they are endogenous regulatory compounds in all vertebrates, it is impossible for any prey organism to develop resistance to them. Purine generation from endogenous precursors in the prey explains the presence of many hitherto unexplained enzyme activities in snake venoms: 5'-nucleotidase, endonucleases (including ribonuclease), phosphodiesterase, ATPase, ADPase, phosphomonoesterase, and NADase. Phospholipases A(2), cytotoxins, myotoxins, and heparinase also participate in purine liberation, in addition to their better known functions. Adenosine contributes to prey immobilization by activation of neuronal adenosine A(1) receptors, suppressing acetylcholine release from motor neurons and excitatory neurotransmitters from central sites. It also exacerbates venom-induced hypotension by activating A(2) receptors in the vasculature. Adenosine and inosine both activate mast cell A(3) receptors, liberating vasoactive substances and increasing vascular permeability. Guanosine probably contributes to hypotension, by augmenting vascular endothelial cGMP levels via an unknown mechanism. Novel functions are suggested for toxins that act upon blood coagulation factors, including nitric oxide production, using the prey's carboxypeptidases. Leucine aminopeptidase may link venom hemorrhagic metalloproteases and endogenous chymotrypsin-like proteases with venom L-amino acid oxidase (LAO), accelerating the latter. The primary function of LAO is probably to promote prey hypotension by activating soluble guanylate cyclase in the presence of superoxide dismutase. LAO's apoptotic activity, too slow to be relevant to prey capture, is undoubtedly secondary and probably serves principally a digestive function. It is concluded that the principal function of L-type Ca(2+) channel antagonists and muscarinic toxins, in Dendroaspis venoms, and acetylcholinesterase in other elapid venoms, is to promote hypotension. Venom dipeptidyl peptidase IV-like enzymes probably also contribute to hypotension by destroying vasoconstrictive peptides such as Peptide YY, neuropeptide Y and substance P. Purines apparently bind to other toxins which then serve as molecular chaperones to deposit the bound purines at specific subsets of purine receptors. The assignment of pharmacological activities such as transient neurotransmitter suppression, histamine release and antinociception, to a variety of proteinaceous toxins, is probably erroneous. Such effects are probably due instead to purines bound to these toxins, and/or to free venom purines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Aird
- Laboratório de Toxinas Naturais, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Avenida Paranjana, 1700, Itaperí, 60740-000, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
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REMUZGO C, ALVAREZ MP, RODRIGUEZ E, LAZO F, YARLEQUE A. Micrurus spixii (PERUVIAN CORAL SNAKE) VENOM - PRELIMINARY BIOCHEMICAL AND ENZYMATIC CHARACTERIZATION. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1590/s0104-79302002000100012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. REMUZGO
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Perú
| | | | | | - F. LAZO
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Perú
| | - A. YARLEQUE
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Perú
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Jorge da Silva N, Aird SD. Prey specificity, comparative lethality and compositional differences of coral snake venoms. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2001; 128:425-56. [PMID: 11255115 DOI: 10.1016/s1532-0456(00)00215-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Toxicities of crude venoms from 49 coral snake (Micrurus sp.) populations, representing 15 nominal taxa, were examined in both laboratory mice and in native prey animals and compared with data gathered from two non-micrurine elapids and a crotalid, which served as outgroups. These venoms were further compared on the basis of 23 enzymatic activities. Both toxicities and enzymatic activities were analyzed with respect to natural prey preferences, as determined from stomach content analyses and literature reports. Venoms of nearly all Micrurus for which prey preferences are known, are more toxic to natural prey than to non-prey species. Except for amphisbaenians, prey are more susceptible to venoms of Micrurus that feed upon them, than to venoms of those that eat other organisms. All venoms were more toxic i.v.>i.p.>i.m. Route-specific differences in toxicity are generally greatest for preferred prey species. Cluster analyses of venom enzymatic activities resulted in five clusters, with the fish-eating M. surinamensis more distant from other Micrurus than even the crotalid, Bothrops moojeni. Ophiophagous and amphisbaenian-eating Micrurus formed two close subclusters, one allied to the outgroup species Naja naja and the other to the fossorial, ophiophagous Bungarus multicinctus. Prey preference is shown to be the most important determinant of venom composition in Micrurus.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jorge da Silva
- Centro de Estudos e Pesquisas Biológicas, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Católica de Goiás, Avenida Universitária, 1440-Setor Universitário, Goiânia, 74605-010, Goiás, Brazil
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47
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Jeyaseelan K, Armugam A, Donghui M, Tan NH. Structure and phylogeny of the venom group I phospholipase A(2) gene. Mol Biol Evol 2000; 17:1010-21. [PMID: 10889214 DOI: 10.1093/oxfordjournals.molbev.a026382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipases A(2) (PLA(2)s) catalyzing the hydrolysis of phospholipids form a family of proteins with diverse physiological and pharmacological properties. While there have been several reports on the cloning of PLA(2) cDNAs, very few studies have been carried out on the PLA(2) genes and, most importantly, no information has been available on the gene structure and function of group I venom PLA(2). This study, on the PLA(2) gene from a spitting cobra, besides being the very first report on any venom group I PLA(2) gene, constitutes the missing link in the biology and evolution of phospholipases. The 4-kb gene consists of four exons and three introns and resembles the human pancreatic PLA(2) gene. However, the size of intron 3 in particular is much smaller than that in the pancreatic gene. Interestingly, the information for the toxic and most of the pharmacological properties of the venom PLA(2) can be attributed to the end of exon 3 and the whole of exon 4 of the gene. This functional delineation fits in well with the theory of adaptive evolution exhibited by the venom PLA(2)s. We also show that the mammalian pancreatic and elapid PLA(2)s have similar paths of evolution (probably following gene duplication) from a common ancestral gene. Venom group II phospholipases, although evolved from the same ancestor, diverged early in evolution from the group I PLA(2) genes. Intriguingly, CAT reporter gene assays and DNase 1 footprinting studies on the promoter and its deletion constructs using CHO and HepG2 cell lines identified the possible involvement of cis elements such as Sp1, AP2, gamma-IRE, and (TG)(12) repeats in the expression of the gene in a tissue-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Jeyaseelan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Bioscience Center, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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